Personal alarms for older people: Staying safe and independent

As we age, safety at home can be compromised but home care telecare aids such as a personal alarm can help an older person live independently at home. This guide explains what personal alarms are, how they work, different types of personal alarm and who should use them.

At a glance

• Personal alarms give elderly people instant access to help after a fall, illness, or emergency, supporting safe and independent living at home.
• They provide peace of mind for families, knowing help can be summoned 24/7, even when they are not nearby.
• There are different types of personal alarms available including pendant alarms and alarms that act as fall detectors and/or have GPS tracking.
• Personal alarms work best alongside professional home care services, adding an extra layer of protection between care visits.

What is a personal alarm for the elderly?

A personal alarm for the elderly is a wearable or portable device that lets older adults quickly call for help in an emergency. This form of telecare is also known as a medical alert system or panic alarm.

It is a small device which is either worn as a pendant or wristband or is kept nearby and it allows an older person to call for help instantly by pressing a button.

It is used for emergency situations, such as falls at home, accidents, dangers at home and rogue traders.   

Personal alarms help an individual live safely and independently at home.

How do personal alarms work? 

Most personal alarm systems follow a simple process:

1. The user presses the alarm button.
2. The device contacts a monitoring centre.
3. A trained operator speaks to the user through the alarm unit.
4. Help is arranged – a family member, carer, or emergency service.

Most personal alarms connect the user to a 24/7 monitoring centre, work inside the home (and sometimes outdoors), allow help to be summoned after a fall, illness, or emergency.

Can carers respond to personal alarms?

Yes. Alerts can be sent to carers, family members, or emergency services depending on the setup.

Do I need a personal alarm?

This telecare is ideal for people who live independently but want fast access to help in case of a fall, illness, or emergency.

Personal alarms are ideal if you live alone and have limited mobility or balance issues, are elderly or frail, have long-term health conditions, are recently discharged from hospital or are arranging care for a relative.

Is a personal alarm a good idea for the elderly?

Yes. Personal alarms provide fast access to help, reduce anxiety and support independent living at home.

Telecare: Types of personal alarm  

Basic personal alarm

Sounds a very loud alarm when button is pressed to alert people in hearing distance.

Pendant alarm

Pendant alarms, when pressed connects you to 24/7 emergency response service. They will decide if you need emergency services or if they need to call one of your contacts.

There may be a setup fee and ongoing monthly or annual subscription to pay.

GPS tracking alarm

GPS tracking alarms can be used anywhere and can pinpoint your location if something happens when you’re away from home. There is also a panic button. There is a set up fee and monthly/annual subscription.

Fall detector

A fall alarm works automatically as soon as a fall is detected to get you the help you need.

It has a motion sensor to detect a fall and sends an alert to an emergency response centre or a loved one. 

Lifeline alarm

Local authorities operate community alarm systems, also referred to as a lifeline alarm.  You will receive a base unit and pendant.

How do I choose the right personal alarm?

When selecting a personal alarm, there are several things to consider.

Here are some questions to think about before buying an alarm.  

• Is the personal alarm monitored 24/7?
• Does it work outside the home?
• Is it easy to use?
• How easy is it to cancel the alarm (if triggered accidentally)?    
• Is it waterproof (e.g. for use in bathroom etc)?
• Is it QSF Certified (audited against quality standards devised by the Telecare Services Association (TSA)?
• What is the distance range of the product?
• Is it compatible with existing care arrangements?
• Is there an ongoing subscription fee?
• How many emergency contacts can you have?
• Is your personal alarm appropriate for the UK’s digital switchover (due for completion in 2027). An analogue device doesn’t use a wi-fi or Sim connection.  Devices described as ‘analogue phone line’ or ‘PSTN’, won’t work after the digital switchover.  To see if a device is compatible with the digital switchover, the device’s product description may say IP, VoIP-compatible, digital-ready or cloud-based.   
• Does the device include ongoing support?
• Does the personal alarm need software updates?

How much is a personal alarm? 

The cost of a personal alarm really depends on the type of personal alarm you get.

Here are some average costs of personal alarms.

• Basic personal alarm: £5-£20.
• Pendant alarm: £30-50 initial set up and monthly subscription of £15-20 per month. 
• GPS tracking alarm: Set-up fee £30-£50, monthly cost £20-£30.
• Fall detector: Initial setup fee (£30-50). Monthly cost £20-27.

Can I get free personal alarms for the elderly?

Some councils provide personal alarm equipment at low cost or free, depending on need and finances, but it’s not guaranteed nationwide.

You can check with your council to find out if they supply a Lifeline alarm service and if you are eligible for the free service.

If you have care needs due to age, disability, or health, you might be able to get a personal alarm at a reduced cost or receive funding towards it through your council. If you contact your local council for a care needs assessment, the assessment will determine what support and care equipment is appropriate for you.

Why are personal alarms needed for older adults?

1. Fast help in emergencies

Falls are one of the leading causes of injury in older adults. A personal alarm ensures help can be called immediately, even if you cannot reach a phone.

2. Peace of mind

Knowing that you can get help at any time offers reassurance, especially for families who don’t live nearby.

3. Support independent living

Personal alarms help elderly people stay in their own homes longer, delaying or avoiding the need for residential care.

4. Works alongside home care

When combined with professional support from home care providers, personal alarms form part of a wider safety and care plan.

Personal Alarms vs Home Care: What’s the difference?

A personal alarm is not a replacement for care but these telecare devices can be used alongside home care services.

Personal Alarms	Home Care
Emergency support	Daily living support
Works 24/7	Scheduled visits or live in care
Low monthly cost	Tailored care plans
Immediate response	Ongoing assistance

Many families use both – arranging personal care services through homecare.co.uk while also installing a personal alarm for added protection.

How can home care help keep you safe and independent?

A personal alarm for the elderly can make a life-changing difference.

While this telecare can improve safety, professional home care staff can provide:

• Help with washing, dressing and meals.
• Medication reminders.
• Specialist dementia or mobility support.
• Help with household tasks such as food shopping.
• Companionship.
• Assistance attending medical appointments, social activities, hobbies and visits to see family.

By combining personal alarms with professional support from home care providers, you can have a care solution that prioritises safety, dignity, confidence and independence at home.

If you’re exploring care options for yourself or a loved one, you can compare home care services and understand costs on homecare.co.uk.

FAQs